Key Features

• Universal access: One key opens over 10,000 disabled toilets nationwide
• Blue and silver design: Modern keys feature a distinctive blue heart-shaped head for easy identification and comfortable grip
• Long handle: Designed to bypass vandal-protection blocks built into doors
• 24-hour access: Use facilities any time, day or night, without needing to ask for assistance
• Quality tested: Genuine keys are manufactured and tested by master locksmiths to ensure they work reliably

Why Lock Accessible Toilets?

Accessible toilets are locked to:

• Prevent vandalism: Protect facilities from damage and misuse
• Maintain cleanliness: Ensure toilets remain in a clean, functional state
• Reduce misuse: Keep facilities available for people who genuinely need them
• Ensure availability: Guarantee that accessible toilets are ready when disabled people need them

Because accessible toilets are larger, private, and often better maintained than standard facilities, they can attract misuse by the general public. Locking them ensures they're available for those who truly need accessible features.

Who Manages the Scheme Today?

Following a merger, the scheme is now managed by Disability Rights UK. Around 400 local authorities across the UK participate in the National Key Scheme, along with shopping centres, transport hubs, leisure facilities, and thousands of other venues.

You May Need a RADAR Key if You:

• Have a physical disability affecting mobility
• Use a wheelchair or mobility aid
• Have a chronic illness or long-term health condition
• Need assistance from a carer
• Require additional space or equipment (such as handrails, grab bars, or higher toilets)
• Have a bladder or bowel condition
• Need changing facilities or a hoist
• Have any condition that makes standard public toilets difficult or impossible to use

Who Can Purchase One?

While there's no legal requirement to prove your disability when purchasing a RADAR Key, the keys are intended solely for people with disabilities or health conditions who need accessible facilities.

Many retailers request a simple declaration or ask to see evidence such as:

• Blue Badge
• PIP or DLA award letter
• Disabled Railcard
• Medical documentation

Some suppliers, like Blue Badge Co., sell to anyone who declares they need accessible facilities, making the process simple and dignified.

Common Locations Include:

• Shopping centres and retail parks
• Train stations and bus stations - most mainline stations have RADAR toilets
• Airports
• Motorway service stations
• Pubs, cafés and restaurants
• Department stores and supermarkets
• Tourist attractions and visitor centres
• Parks and outdoor spaces
• Leisure centres and sports facilities
• Museums, galleries and theatres
• Council buildings and public offices
• Hospitals and medical centres
• Universities and colleges
• Hotels and conference centres

What Facilities Do RADAR Toilets Provide?

Accessible toilets fitted with RADAR locks typically feature:

• Wide doorways for wheelchair access
• Spacious interiors with room to manoeuvre
• Grab rails and support bars
• Higher or adjustable toilet seats
• Lower wash basins
• Emergency pull cords
• Baby changing facilities (in many locations)
• Space for carers to assist

The Great British Public Toilet Map

The best way to locate RADAR toilets is to use the Great British Public Toilet Map.

How to use it:

1. Visit www.toiletmap.org.uk
2. Enter your location or postcode
3. Use the filter on the left-hand side
4. Select "RADAR key" or "Accessible"
5. View all RADAR-locked toilets in your area

The map shows opening times, exact locations, and available facilities at each toilet.

Mobile Apps

Several free smartphone apps can help you find accessible toilets on the go:

• Changing Places App - specifically for Changing Places toilets with hoists and changing benches
• Accessible toilet apps - search "RADAR" or "NKS" in your app store
• Toilet Map app - mobile version of the Great British Public Toilet Map

Look for the Signs

When you're out and about, look for:

• The blue and white disabled toilet symbol
• Signs mentioning "RADAR" or "National Key Scheme"
• Accessible toilet signage at venues

Most venues with RADAR-locked toilets will display clear signage directing you to the facilities.

Identifying a RADAR Lock

RADAR locks are usually located on the door at a comfortable height. They feature:

• A distinctive keyhole designed for RADAR keys
• Often a vinyl surround to help locate the lock from a distance
• Sometimes a cover plate that needs to be lifted

Using the Key

1. Insert your RADAR Key into the lock
2. Turn the key to unlock the door
3. Open the door and enter
4. Lock the door from inside for privacy
5. When leaving, ensure the door locks behind you

Important Etiquette

• Check before opening: Knock or look for an engaged sign to avoid embarrassing situations. Some users may forget to lock the door from inside.
• Don't judge others: Not all disabilities are visible. People may need accessible toilets for various medical conditions that aren't immediately apparent.
• Keep facilities clean: Leave the toilet as you'd wish to find it for the next user.
• Report issues: If a RADAR toilet is damaged, dirty, or out of order, report it to the venue or local authority.

Accessible Countryside Gates

Many countryside paths, bridleways, and nature reserves feature RADAR-locked gates designed for wheelchair users and mobility scooter users. These "H-frame" gates with rectangular enclosures can be opened with your RADAR Key, giving you independent access to outdoor spaces.

RADAR Padlocks

RADAR padlocks (easily identified by their bright red coating) are used to secure:

• Temporary accessible toilets at events
• Access ramps and equipment
• Other disability access facilities

Genuine RADAR Keys Feature:

• Quality materials: Made from durable metals
• Precision manufacturing: Cut and tested by master locksmiths
• Guaranteed to work: Tested with actual RADAR locks before sale
• Proper identification: Stamped with official markings
• Comfortable design: Blue heart-shaped handle for easy grip and identification
• Correct specifications: Long handle to bypass vandal protection

How much does a RADAR Key cost?

Prices vary depending on where you buy, but typically range from £4.50 to £6.00. Keys are usually VAT-exempt if purchased for personal use by someone with a disability.

Some local authorities offer them free or at a discounted rate to local residents.

Can I buy more than one key?

Yes! It's sensible to keep spare keys - one on your house keys, one in your car, and perhaps one in your bag. This ensures you always have access when you need it.

Will my RADAR Key work everywhere in the UK?

Your key will work with any RADAR/NKS lock fitted in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. However, not all accessible toilets use RADAR locks - some venues use different systems or keep toilets unlocked.

What if I lose my key?

You can purchase a replacement key from any RADAR key supplier. There's no registration system, so you simply buy a new one.

Do older silver keys still work?

Yes! Older RADAR keys (which are completely silver without the blue heart) still work perfectly with RADAR locks. The newer keys with blue handles are simply an updated design.

Can non-disabled people buy RADAR Keys?

Technically yes, as there's no legal requirement to prove disability. However, RADAR Keys are intended solely for people who genuinely need accessible facilities. Misuse by non-disabled people prevents those who truly need these facilities from accessing them.

What's the difference between a RADAR toilet and a Changing Places toilet?

RADAR toilets are standard accessible toilets with basic features. Changing Places toilets are larger facilities with additional equipment including:

• Ceiling track hoists
• Adult-sized changing benches
• Space for multiple carers
• Peninsula or centrally-placed toilets

Many Changing Places toilets also use RADAR locks and can be accessed with your key.

What should I do if a RADAR toilet is out of order?

Report it to the venue manager or, if it's a public toilet, to your local authority. You can also update the Great British Public Toilet Map to help other users.

Are RADAR Keys available outside the UK?

The National Key Scheme is a UK system. Other countries may have similar schemes, but RADAR Keys are designed specifically for UK facilities.

Independence and Dignity

Access facilities without having to ask staff for assistance or explain your needs. Simply use your key and maintain your privacy and independence.

24-Hour Access

Many RADAR-locked toilets are accessible 24 hours a day, even when venues are closed or outside normal hours.

Peace of Mind

Know that clean, well-maintained facilities will be available when you need them. Locked toilets are less likely to be vandalised or misused.

No More Queuing

Bypass queues for standard facilities and access the toilet you need immediately.

Nationwide Coverage

One key works across the entire UK, giving you confidence to travel and explore new places.

Greater Freedom

Enjoy days out, travel, and social activities with confidence, knowing you can access facilities independently wherever you go.

Blue Badge Company

Purchase your genuine, quality-tested RADAR Key directly from Blue Badge Co. for peace of mind and guaranteed quality.

Our keys feature:

• Genuine N&C Phlexicare design
• Blue heart-shaped head for comfortable grip
• Quality tested to work with all RADAR locks
• Fast delivery
• VAT exempt for disabled people

Other Suppliers

You can also buy genuine RADAR Keys from:

• Disability Rights UK
• Many local authorities (some offer them free to residents)
• Some tourist information centres
• Disability organisations
• Shopmobility schemes

Always ensure you're buying a genuine key stamped with official markings from a reputable supplier.